2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 545 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Mercedes-Benz S 2008 Volkswagen Passat
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model S Passat
Year Released 2002 2008
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4266 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 275 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 401 Nm 281 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1800 RPM
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1895 kg 1350 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4790 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 70 L